Overview & Reviews

Large V8-powered sedans made a comeback in the 21st century, but the Ford Crown Victoria was one of the very few full-size, rear-drive sedans that never left. The "Crown Vic" moniker goes back several decades to when Ford adopted the name for a high-line trim level on the full-size LTD sedan, as baby boomers and their elders no doubt recall. The LTD name was dropped in 1992.

The Crown Vic's model run continued uninterrupted until 2007, the last year it was available for consumer purchase. However, it is still produced for fleet use by law enforcement and other agencies.

Unlike its more modern competition, the throwback Ford Crown Victoria uses stout but heavy body-on-frame construction and a solid rear axle. The ride and handling envelope suffered somewhat as a result, but it is a durable and cost-effective approach -- which, no doubt, is why it's so popular with cab companies, police departments and fleet operators.

For the car's most recent redesign in 2003, Ford fitted it with an all-new frame, a redesigned front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, all of which improved the big Vic's crash performance and handling dynamics. But, equipped like a Police Interceptor or not, it still couldn't match the agility and overall refinement of its American and Japanese peers, which feature modern unibody designs with fully independent suspensions.

Most Recent Ford Crown Victoria

Last produced for civilian use for the 2007 model year, the Ford Crown Victoria was a full-size, six-passenger sedan available in base and LX trim levels. The LX model had a few extra upscale features and also allowed access to a couple optional packages such as the premium handling and performance package (previously known as the LX Sport trim level).

Despite its 2-ton curb weight, the Crown Victoria was reasonably quick thanks to a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 224 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque; LX models equipped with the upgraded performance package were a bit swifter, with 239 horses and 287 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic was the only transmission available, although Crown Vics equipped with the sport package also had an upgraded torque converter and shorter rear-axle gearing that made for quicker initial acceleration off the line.

Inside, the dated design and budget materials quality were immediately apparent. The vehicle's strengths were reflected in its solid value for the money and the roomy, comfortable accommodations for five or six. This included a huge 21-cubic-foot trunk that could easily swallow a week's worth of luggage for four adults or a family.

In reviews, we found that the Ford Crown Victoria delivered a forgiving ride quality. Handling was acceptable but sloppy, and there was just no getting around this big sedan's decades-old design, substantial weight and large dimensions. If you're looking for nothing more than a simple family cruiser or roomy commuter, a used, well-kept Crown Vic will perform admirably. But if you want a full-size V8 sedan that also feels nimble and refined, we believe you'll be happier with this Ford's more modern competition, such as a Chrysler 300.

Past Ford Crown Victoria Models

Though it's received a variety of updates in the past 15 years, the most recent Crown Victoria is still basically the same car as it was back in 1992, the time of the last major redesign.

The most recent body style dates back to 1998, though in 2003 it received an all-new chassis under that now-familiar body shell. The suspension design was largely the same, but it featured many updates and incorporated more responsive rack-and-pinion steering for the first time. Antilock brakes were made standard that year, and front side airbags were available on both the LX and LX Sport.

The Crown Victoria was dramatically restyled for 1998 by adopting the formal roof line previously used exclusively on its Mercury Grand Marquis twin. Powertrains were revised to deliver more power, and the rear suspension was tweaked to improve handling. There were only detail changes until 2001 when adjustable pedals were first offered, and the engine was tweaked yet again to boost output to 220 hp on the base and LX models and a dual-exhaust-enabled 235 hp on the LX Sport.

Following the end of the previous model's long run, the '92 Ford Crown Victoria debuted with a restyled body and a new-generation, overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 rated at 190 or 210 hp that we found much smoother and more powerful than the ancient overhead-valve V8s it replaced. Minor improvements carried through to 1995, when a new grille, lighting, bumpers, trunk lid and modified dash arrived. After that, not much changed until the next big update three years later.

User Reviews:

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  CVPI Review - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
  By steve bloom - May 11 - 5:00 pm

  This is a brand new 2005 Police Interceptor with the 250 hp engine. Quick midrange performance, but slower off the line due to the curb weight. Outstanding response and handles like its on rails. Very well balanced. Spartan interior but very comfortable buckets with power adjustment. Dual exhaust has a nice sound but is subdued at the same time. Same as the LX Sport except for the 11 hp increase.

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  My blue-collar Bentley - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Heroic Oaf - April 23 - 3:06 am

  Weve had this car for almost a year as of this writing and are very, very satisfied with its performance and comfort. Large, yet modest. Doesnt leak a drop of nothin, except a/c condensation. Yes, we did have to replace a rear axle shaft a few months in, but flawless otherwise. Though it gets a lousy 12 mpg in the city, it gets 28 to 30 on the highway - incredible! And thats with three adult-sized people with luggage. Smooth as honey on the interstate.

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  1999 P71 Crown Vic - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
  By 1999 Crown Vic P71 - April 18 - 6:10 pm

  Purchased Crown Vic in 2/08, $2700. Crown Vic has very good handling. I installed extra reflectors that are well placed, interceptor emblems, converted to honeycomb grille, impressive looking vehicle. With the spotlight, dark wheels and recognizable style, people tend to move out of the way or even better stay away. Also installed Goodyear touring type tires, ride is significantly smoother. Performance is very good but seems to shift into overdrive at a low rpm, however push the pedal and the Crown Vic has impressive power for a heavy vehicle. Interior design is basic but with the added center console it is fine. Even though the Vic is a 99 it retains the appearance of newer vehicles,

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  Great Value & Performance but... - 2001 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Raymondo Galvez - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Good value, solid car. I bought one of the first Sport packages and this has definitely improved the overall vehicle. Load leveling and 17" Goodyear LS make for a superior ride with good handeling. Only disappoint was fit of exterior panels.

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  Crown Vic LX Sport The Only One - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By tcox - April 5 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Crown Vic, the first being a 2001 base model. The 2001 was a fine car but in 2003 Ford redesigned the front suspension and frame as well as the door panels. The result is the best car I have ever owned. The ride and drive are truly incredible. The frame has no annoying vibration even over chopy pavement. The LX SPORT has very large and comfortable seats with larger tires and a console. I bought mine for $24,990 and feel that it is one of the best new car values out there. The 2004 LX drives very nice also, you can order the handling package on it for just $640. Finely the base model is in my opinion the best new car value out there. With

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  One Sweet Vickie - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Jimacpro - March 21 - 6:53 pm

  Purchased this car off lease from a national grocery broker. car was well maintained, and continues to enjoy regular maintenance. Large car, solid body, and excellent suspension make this sedan a true interstate cruiser. when operated on cruise control with the A/C on, I experience a solid 27 MPG at 75 MPH. Performance to spare, I never lack in acceleration when merging onto the busiest of thoroughfares. Cant recall owning a car I enjoyed more than My 2K Vickie!

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  Great suprise - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
  By great car - March 8 - 8:13 pm

  Suprisingly great ride, handling, economy, and dependability. The v-8 delivers a significant amount of power and consistantly averages over 22 mpg. Although a good looking car, the style is becoming a little outdated. I have put over 40k miles with absolutely no problems with the vehicle. I strongly recommend; comparability equal to luxury sedans costing thousands more.

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  Fantastic - 2002 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Officer nimintz - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Great machine ! mine looks just like CHP car

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  MY BABY! - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Tony - February 16 - 9:40 am

  I recently bought a 2000 Crown Vic and I am in love with the car. Smoothest ride around, powerful V8, and comfort and quality to boot. This was an obvious upgrade from my beat-up 88 Buick Century and i dont regret it one bit. Complain about style all you want, Im 20 and I think this is a sharp car for being a "geriatric" car. It is far from it.

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  My 2000 Crown Victoria - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Gerry House-Peters - February 14 - 8:40 am

  I purchased my 2000 Crown Victoria for $20,500 in November of that year. It is the basic model and I have put 20,000 miles a year on it. I thoroughly enjoy the roominess and being 6".2" can really stretch out in it. As for the trunk, well, it has as much luggage space, if not better than any large SUV on the market. I intend to buy another one when the 2007 models come out. Its a bargain! As far as the Chrysler 300 is concerned, well its certainly a lot flashier than the Vic but Im afraid Id suffer from claustrophobia with those narrow "gangster windows!